Zeyad Janahi

Ziyad Janahi is a distinguished Bahraini professional and dynamic leader with over two decades of corporate experience across the aviation, telecommunications, and banking sectors, alongside an accomplished career in chess as a FIDE Master and Certified FIDE Instructor.

As both a corporate leader and a chess professional, Ziyad combines analytical, educational, and organizational skills with a passion for fostering intellectual growth through strategic thinking, mentorship, and training in both business and sports.

Academic Qualifications:

• MBA - University of Strathclyde (2008).
• B.Sc. in Accounting - University of Bahrain (2003).
• TOEFL Certification (2006).

Professional Experience:

• Revenue Management / Inventory Controller - Gulf Air (2012-2014).
• Demand Analyst & Revenue Management - Gulf Air (2011).
• Fixed Assets Supervisor - VIVA Telecommunications (2010).
• Assistant Manager, General Services - Bahrain Islamic Bank (2009).
• Coordinator, Capital Investment Review Committee - Batelco (2006-2008).
• Fixed Assets Controller – Batelco (2003-2005).

Chess Achievements:

• First Bahraini FIDE Master (since 1990).
• Certified FIDE Instructor (2021-2024).
• Arab Universities Chess Champion - Egypt & Lebanon.
• Gold Medalist, Asian Team Championship - Abu Dhabi.
• Gold Medalist, Arab Youth Championship - Qatar.
• Multiple-time Bahrain Chess Champion.

Represented Bahrain in:

• World Chess Olympiad - Armenia.
• World Youth Championships - USA, Poland, Germany, Czech Republic.

Chess Leadership & Coaching Experience:

Founder & CEO - Chess Gate Academy, Bahrain (2022–Present)

• Established the first private chess academy in Bahrain.
• Developed customized training programs for all levels.
• Organized tournaments and represented the academy locally and internationally.

FIDE Instructor - Riffa Views Chess Academy (2024-Present)

• Conducting training for players of all ages.
• Preparing students for national and international competitions.
• Promoting chess culture in schools and clubs across Bahrain.

FIDE Instructor - American School of Bahrain (2022-2024)

Head of Training & National Teams Committee - Bahrain Mind Sports Association (2005–2009)

• Oversaw national training programs and team selections.
• Coordinated with international federations and tournament organizers.
• Chess Coach & Event Organizer - St. Christopher’s School (2000-2003).
• Founder & President - Chess Club, University of Bahrain (1999-2003).

Ziyad continues to play a leading role in developing the chess community in Bahrain, combining his corporate background with his lifelong passion for the game to inspire and mentor the next generation of thinkers and champions.